March

If you live in the same general area March came in like a roaring lion.. Good grief, so done with winter, snow, ice. And so ready for my kindergarten student to have normal weeks of school. Most of March found us inside, cuddled under piles of blankets praying for warm weather to be outside playing. I have spent a lot of time knitting. Shocker. Is it weird to give a shout out to yourself? Whatever. It's my blog! And so is this one --> Brandie's Basket <-- check it out. It's a place where I can document my wip (work in progress) and also remind myself of patterns and what I have made.

Family is doing well. Ready to spend time outside, getting to know our neighbors :)

Onto the opinions, reviews -----

CHOCOLATE!! Seriously, do I need to say anything else? Of course I will ;) Dark chocolate with a hint of tart cherry and an almond crunch. Hello, yum. I may have done a little happy dance while eating it :) It's probably a good thing for my waist line it was a sample instead of an entire bar.

 Shampoo AND Conditioner First of all let me say that I am glad this came to me as a set. I hate, no loathe, it when my shampoo and conditioner aren't used evenly. What do I do with all the extra!? I'm curious to try a No-Poo shampoo, but this size is perfect for traveling and a good sample size.

 Coola BB Cream! Stoked! I was so excited to try this out, but I was quite disappointed :( I may need to use it as a layered product, and use it for the sunscreen, but the coverage was awful. That put me in a search for a BB cream for the summer. I think I found my new favorite! Benefit's Big Easy! This cream adjusts to the skin tone, and also has a powdery finish. I wore this to work (in a fast paced environment and I tend to glisten by the end of my shift) and I was NOT oily. Sold. Love it.

 Hand Cream Blech. Too floral for me. I prefer a more subtle scent to my lotions. 

Coffee Night Cream(?!?!!) Coffee beans in an night cream?! Yes, please! First, when I see "night cream" I think a very heavy, thick cream. This was not! It is light, has a fresh orange-like scent and was amazing. Totally recommend!

February Happenings

February. The month of love. And for me this year, way too much snow. My poor kid has had a delay or cancellation way too often this year. Between the ice, snow, and just cold weather, I am so ready for some warm, spring weather. I'll be honest - I am not totally sure what my backyard looks like. I may have forgotten what the landscaping is like. Oops. I'm also ready for my dogs to stop using the patio instead of the yard for their business. Ugh.
So, here is what we have been doing recently:
Shannon and Audrey have 9 days between their birthdays. We celebrate each person two times in that week and a half span. It's weird to think that there are days I can't remember yesterday, but I can remember a lot about the day she was born (or the day I gave birth to her, depending on who I want to give the credit to. Let's be honest, I did the work. She was the product of said work. I guess it would be like asking what came first -- the chicken or the egg?? Don't ask Siri.)

Landon has started going to a day care and it's been amazing! He wasn't much of a fan, but now he loves going to play with his little friends and I really like his day care provider. It's a small place on my way to work (YAY!!!!!) and it's been a blessing. Plus, since he is in day care 2 days a week, that gives me little excuses to go to the gym those two days. But, it's been good to burn those calories, work out stress, and sweat. It's been cheap therapy for me. Plus, I have been sleeping more soundly at night, and have more energy during the day to complete the tasks I need to check off my list.

On to that list -- it's opinion time! :) (Because my March box came in the mail today! HA!)

 W3LL People Multi color stick is amazing. I feel weird about using the same product for my eyes, lips, and cheeks, but I LOVED it on my lips! Very soft color, not drying, and it wasn't sticky. I hate it when my hair gets stuck on my lips because of the product. Ew. This one, I like and would recommend.

Half-Up I have wanted the sock bun since I started working at the cafe and have to (GASP!) wear a hair net. It's not glamorous, but it's food service. I am still trying to figure this thing out. I like it, but my hair has so many layers to it that most seems to fall out - boo. Learning curve to figuring it out, but I think once I have it mastered I'll be golden.

 Serum So I am thankful that I don't have to remember the entire name of this thing - Ultra-Light Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum - but I'll keep it short for you - love it! I could use this ALL over my face. Left my skin feeling balanced, moisturized, and smooth. This may be one for this 30-something to add to my bag on a daily basis. Highly recommend to help prevent and correct signs of aging.

Whish Body Butter I love having a small bottle of lotion close to me to keep my hands soft. This lotion didn't leave a greasy feel to my hands, which I hate! If I needed to open a door after applying this lotion, I could. Great smell (pomegranate) but also not overpowering. My normal go to is from Bath and Body works but this is a close second.

Tea Bags I have little opinion about tea. I'll drink it, but since it's a one time use item I don't really have an opinion. I did enjoy the taste of it, but I also prefer coffee. The tea bags didn't explode so I wasn't chewing my tea. As I said, little opinion about tea :)

And some fun family photos for your viewing enjoyment ---

My dear son trying to do shoulder presses (with a 2 pound weight). This boy keeps me on my toes. He's hilarious, sweet, and ornery all wrapped into one little body.

I can't wait to have THIS be my view most evenings.. Kids outside playing.. Me chilling, listening to some music, drinking some vino, and enjoying life. So ready for spring!!!!!

 

Happy March friends!!! 

So I've gotten a few Birchboxes without my review of the products.......

First of all, let's be honest -- it's been a while and my last blog was dark. Hard day. You've been there too... maybe have even admitted to it! That being said, it's a new year, and I am amazed at where my family is now is 2014. Let me tell ya, that's a whole different blog in and of itself. Last year at this time, I was learning how everything worked at the big Oak Cafe. My first day at the cafe was a bit overwhelming! Ha.. but was a good change for my family and I am thankful for the opportunity to become a barista and the people I have met through the cafe. It's been a huge blessing for my family.

Now -- back to the real reason for THIS blog -- my opinion! :) There's a really good chance there are going to be lots of opinions here, but I feel the need to catch up before my February Birchbox (sign up here!) arrives in my mailbox!

In a totally random order -----

betty&ko - The Betty Polish is a very nice sugar scrub. I like the sample of it, but for the price tag, I would probably never buy it for myself. Very nice smell to it, not too gritty, not too soft.. I just don't think it's worth the $48 price tag.

A candle. (no photo. It's a cream votive.) I'll be totally honest (what else would you expect!?) this candle has such a strong smell to it. And not a scent that I enjoy being absorbed by my nostrils. Way too strong for me. It's a candle. I have had so many votive candles that it wasn't special to me.

Insert an image of a cream colored votive candle HERE.

 

Viva la Juicy -- I'm usually not a fan of perfume samples because I can go to a department store and get the exact same thing. I have also had some scents that are so strong I can smell them before I see them in my box. (gross.) This one is a light, fruity.. with a hint of a musk to it. As I smell my wrist, I am leaning more towards liking it with every sniff.

Manna Sheer Glo Oh the sparkles and the shimmer! :) I do like products like these, but I just don't wear them often. Great for a day to night look or to add a little somethin' somethin' to a look. I will say that I do prefer a tube to a pump though. I just like to have control of how much of the product I am getting. I have mixed this with my foundation for an all over, lightly shimmered look that I like.

Healing Balm My hands take a beating. I have a small patch around my wedding rings (I also joke that I an in dire need of a platinum band. My husband laughs in return). The patch ranges from a few small bumps  to being so swollen I can't wear my rings. Plus, being in the sanitation water from work -- it's so harsh. The balm has a clean, spa-like scent. It's light and fresh.. I do feel a tad greasy which I don't like. I don't like seeing a residue from my lotion. I do like this lotion, but I think it's best to use before bed or put on gloves.

Burt's Bees -- first of all, I gotta say there are a lot of Burt's Bees products that I do like and crave. This may be a new favorite of mine. I am normally an oily skinned girl, but this winter has sucked out all the extra moisture I normally have. This stuff is great if I need some extra hydration or am staying in for the day. For me, this is enough hydration to make me feel like I am glowing without glistening. Love this product!

Nail Rock -- I like the idea. Nail polish and glitter. However, I rarely wear nail polish anymore (Boo to dishes, glove, and sanitation water!) I did try this out so I can make an opinion.. The instructions tell me to sit for about 20 minutes for it to dry. That's not going to happen. I'm so spoiled by my Red Carpet Manicure or my Jamberry nails and I can't wait that long. It looks pretty and if I had time to devote to a traditional manicure, I would totally add some sparkle and glitter to it. I've been sitting for the 20 minute dry time..... some of the sequins/glitter/sparkles have come off, but majority have stayed on my nail.

(Stubby nails. Boo. Sad nails... that sparkle!)

Beauty Protector - First, the smell is to die for. There is a warning on my birchbox card that the scent is addictive. I totally agree. It's a warm, comforting smell.. Something that is just yummy in my hair! Plus it protects when I actually USE heating tools to create a style that is not a ponytail or a top knot :) I did have some issues with the spray NOT working, but after I cleaned it up I was good to go. (And, yes, just sprayed it again to make sure I wasn't lying! Oh.. the smell! YUM!)

And since it's been a while here are a few others I have LOVED in my last couple of boxes ---

Eyeko Mascara *drool* So I didn't take a photo of this one, but I really like this mascara. I have never used a mascara in a squishy tube, it's always been a cylinder-like tube.. but I really like it. I feel like I can get more of the product on the wand. It's not clumpy, does a great job separating my lashes, and I LOVE it. I'm also a sucker for a great mascara. This one, two thumbs up! 

Dr. Lipp Nipple Balm  - first of all, this name made me chuckle. I have nursed both of my children past their first birthdays.. The nipple creams are a great thing to have nearby. And the coloring and texture of this balm reminded me of some of the creams I have used on other regions of myself. I would feel very weird smearing some Medela nipple cream on my lips in public. However, this product is JUST what I need this winter. It has been so cold and dry around here that I am craving any kind of moisture I can get. I just found this on the bottom (THE SHAME!) of my make up box and I am about to go grab it RIGHT.NOW and put on my lips. It's a thicker, more moisturizing balm and it's been perfect.


I think that should update you on most of my favorites of the past few months. I'm hoping to get into a groove now. Maybe. Ha. Sure. ;)

May box!

I'll be honest, we have had so much stuff going on between Open House, cleaning, working, preschool, T-Ball, etc., etc., etc., that I had the pleasant surprise of just finding my box one day instead of stalking the tracking for it. So, while Landon is half asleep (boo to preschool jacking with any morning naps. Granted, the boy is also almost 17 months old and probably getting ready to transition into one nap versus two. Ugh.)

PEN!!! I'm a sucker for a great pen. I like pens that have a bold look to them, but also smooth. The fine tip Sharpie markers are some of my favorite --- but they can smear. This one doesn't. I do wish it was blue or black (I'm not a huge fan of various shades of ink. Messes with my eyes.) but the slight tinge of purple is a welcome change for me. Plus, it came with a coupon -- win-win!

Blush - Cargo -- it states it's waterproof... I don't live at the beach, or have a pool, but I do sweat. Oh, and cry. I've been emotional lately. It's almost like there is a little too much on my plate. Shocker. Oops. Sorry. Blush. I like the color! It's so nice for my skin tone! Just adds a slight pop of color and a little bit of shimmer. Totally recommend!

Toothpaste. Odd addition, but this also came the day after I bought a tube. Can you say a day late and a dollar short!? Oh well. It's minty and great, but I'm cheap. I'm not paying $10 for toothpaste unless it whitens, brightens, and tons my abs.

Hair Product! Miss Jessie's Jelly Soft Curls is a great product. It's light, but also seems to give some hold to my hair. I like when my hair has some gentle wave to it! The sample was HUGE too (twss) so I've been able to try it out for over a week. Huge plus! 

Moisturizer. Well, I had a blonde moment! I thought this was straight sunscreen and I don't do well in the sun. I burn. No, I usually turn fiery red and am miserable for days. Oh the sunburns... *shivers* So, I'm going to try this out today! Ha. Sounds like it has some great benefits to it .. cucumber, soothe and tone skin, and SPF 30. Granted, if you live in my neck of the woods it feels like winter has returned in May. Hello, Memorial Day? I'll bring my parka! 


While I have you -----

We are still sitting and waiting for an offer on our house. It's been frustrating having two open houses and NOTHING materializing from either. We have so much drive by traffic, but the showings are so sporadic it's disheartening. It will happen. Preschool just ended, T-Ball has another two weeks but then I'm ready to be moving ahead. But if you or someone you know is considering a move to PA, think of our home. Email me for details.

Have a great day folks and Happy Memorial Day to you and yours!

Shaving cream and body lotion..... and some April box opinions :)

Right now, coffee has brewed, Landon is asleep, and I have 2 hours to work out and get a shower before picking up Audrey from preschool.. But this opinion blog will be short, sweet and to the point!

Whish! Shaving cream smells amazing.. Blueberry! Yum. But, I like a lather, and this didn't lather up for me. I'm also way cheap -- I would never spend $20 for shaving cream unless it was also going to eliminate body fat!

Body Lotion -- okay, ladies, let's be honest --- who does NOT have a drawer full of body lotions? I could use another bottle of lotion like I need a hole in my head. Again, it was lotion.. but I wouldn't spend $22 on it... (Unless there was a guarantee to eliminate body fat, cellulite, and the like!)


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While you are hanging around... Here is part of my April Birchbox

Macaroons -- honestly, I wouldn't buy them. Landon ate them, because he eats almost anything.

CC Cream! I use BB Creams, and I was curious to know, feel and see the difference in a CC Cream. I think I would go back and forth from one to the other. I tried it out and went to work. I ran around like a crazy person that night, and didn't feel oily. Rare, and something I appreciate in this time of the year. I think the name "Supergoop!" is just hilarious and would consider purchasing this item for the name :)

Eye Cream -- hello 30's! Yes, I have been using eye creams for a long time. And I will continue to use them! Ha. I like how this one feels, and if it wasn't $65 I would probably purchase. It would last forever, but I couldn't go to a store, spend $65 on one item and walk away. A little dab will do ya on this one... I like how this one felt, and it didn't smell. My eyes didn't have a reaction. I will use the sample dry, and debate about getting a full size item :)

March Box (and other tidbits!)

This box had its perks as well as its disappointments. Out of the 5 items - a nail file, eye primer, acne gel, body lotion, and shaving cream - I have tried 2 of the items already. Oh well. A sample size of some items will come in handy!

First, the eye primer. I love Benefit. The packaging is uber cute, and I really like how my skin feels with the products. Stay Don't Stray Primer does a great job. It's neutral for my skin tone, and it doesn't feel icky. Plus, it's also a very matte finish and my eye shadow doesn't sink into my itty bitty wrinkles. Blah. Getting older... Anyway..

A nail file. Okay. Let's be honest - a nail file, to me, is a nail file. The plus, is that it does come in a plastic sleeve so I won't file off polish, skin, etc. Nail File is pretty, so it will get use :)

This Blemish Serum couldn't have come at a better time for me!!! My chin has been broken out for a week or so and I hate it. Thirty something and still get acne. Ugh. Hormones (that could be a whole blog in and of itself ... with a LOT of tangents!) But, seriously, this serum is great. It doesn't feel like a medication, but it has also cleared up my chin. YAY!!! So, I would totally recommend... and may have to purchase for future references!!

On another note ---- I thought my pants seemed to have less of a muffin top the other day. I measured myself today on a whim to see if there really has been any change. I'm going to remeasure and weigh tomorrow to make sure, but I think I have lost an inch in my mid-section! Talk about a confidence boost! Even today I think my jeans are looking better and have less stuff coming out the top :)

With that being said --- Happy Friday, friends!

Uhm, yeah, January box....

So, things have been busy. (See previous posts about moving, changes, etc.) I have spent a good bit of my free time painting, boxing extra things we don't use right now and prepping as much as possible for our impending move. That being said --- my January box has been slightly neglected. I still haven't used everything and my February box is hanging out in my bathroom. So, to the things I have used (for time sake, I'm going to lump as many products in one post as possible).

JAN BOX

The Balm Cheek Color--- love this cheek color! And the packaging is way cute. It's a great flushed tone of pink. I really like it. A lot. Plus, it's a magnetic sample. Great sized sample actually.

Skinny Chic Perfume -- I liked this one. It was sweet, citrus, young, fresh scent. I would consider purchasing this one for myself. Or if anyone wants to get it for me as a gift... ;)

FEB BOX

Balm eye color --- love this. It's a great shade, some shimmer, but it's a great all over shade or base. It's a keeper for me! Same packaging as the balm cheek color. Love it! I'm a sucker for cute packaging :) 

Dr. Jart+ BB Cream --- OMG. LOVE! This gives me a nice matte finish for an everyday look. I really like BB creams for the multi-purpose aspect of them, but this one just takes it a step further. Seriously, wish I could have gotten this in a full sized sample :) 

Okay folks, more opinions to come!

Ramblings..

Ever have a day when you really aren't sure what to think or feel? I feel like I've been in a thought bubble.. and those thoughts may have become clear. Maybe. If not, life is about learning, making one better, challenging self, and loving others. 

Church on Sunday we were challenged to meet our literal neighbors and LOVE OTHERS. We have a for sale sign in our home. Makes it a little awkward to make a connection and leave. However, I realized I don't know my neighbors. Some of them I know them as the color of their home, not their name. Mondo fail. We have lived here for almost 10 years. However, I do believe that I can make an impact in other's lives. I am starting to learn more about the people I work with instead of just making drinks and sandwiches (By the way, an espresso machine is a totally welcome gift now!). One girl has 4 siblings, another married a man who had 8 children. A job isn't just about the task at hand, it's also about the people you/I work with. It's the atmosphere you help to create --- or tear apart. 

I try, it's not always easy, but I TRY to be the positive influence. I try to help others as much as I can. I try to see the good things that COULD happen with change. Even the title of this blog - Dancing in the Rain. Life is not easy by any means, but dance. Love. Laugh. Take time to enjoy the small things that really do matter. The rain comes, and the rain goes -- but the rain, oh the smell of sweet rain. The smell of the flowers after the rain. The look of a tree or grass glistening in the remaining water drops. The sound of a soothing spring shower. It's almost magical. 

Today is Fat Tuesday. Man, I could eat a donut ... (I may swap for red velvet whoopie pies!) but it almost makes me think of the next season -- Lent. A time to reflect, give up, penance, pray. For me and my family, I think it's perfect. We are entering a season of change, but change can be good. Ya know, Sheryl Crow -- a change can do ya good... ;) Focus. Change. Something different. Getting out of a rut. Carving a new path. It can be scary, but so rewarding in the end. 

On another slightly coherent thought --- I recently started to follow Donald Miller on twitter (@donaldmiller). Wow. I have never actually read any of his books, that we own, but his words are so real ... raw ... spot on. Yesterday he blogged about worrying. And, really, there is no point in worrying. (Reminds me of this song --- Three Little Birds.) Worrying is exhausting. It will all work out, eventually. Here is a link to his blog about worrying. I really liked it. Donald Miller - worry. I enjoy the post from today too ... written by his dog, Lucy :) 

Right now, we all have the present. The past has made us who and what we are. The future -- it's scary, but also not guaranteed. I'm learning that I want to live in the present. Be present. Be there for my kiddos (even as I shush my eldest) and my husband. I leave this blog with a challenge -- live in the present, with a hope for the future. Love others while you are able to do so, and have that love reciprocated.

Civic Duties

JURY SELECTION AND JURY DUTY. 

I'll be honest -- I was trying to find every excuse in the book to get out of it. I had no desire to try to find day care for my kiddos (ugh!!!), take a day of my time, miss breakfast with some amazing ladies (and the possibility of bacon!) ... the list could go on. But really, I had no idea what to expect. I am no expert, but I do have a fresh memory of what happened the past two days and why if you are called to serve on jury selection and maybe even jury duty why you SHOULD.

1. It's your civic duty and US Citizen right. Jury selection/duty is something that makes the United States of America different. Plus, if you are called to selection, and duty, you are out of the pool for at least three (3) years.

2. Parts are uber boring, but there are times when I was really into what was going on (maybe it was due to the lack of daily adult interaction, but whatever!)

3. I have more of an appreciation for the judicial system and how it works. I have NO desire to be an attorney, judge, or any part of the judicial system, but I do like being able to have a better understanding. I feel smarter now. (And in more ways that one.. some of the excuses people tried to play on the judge to get out of serving were just down right stupid.)

4. I am not planning on committing any crime, but to see folks sitting out there, hearing all of their charges is quite the humbling experience. I have no desire to air my dirty laundry in front of 200+ individuals and feel their eyes on me thinking about what was done.

5. My 'bank' clothes still fit me - and fit me well! It was a nice change to get dressed in something besides jeans or sweats.

I'm sure there are more pros, but the only major con was finding folks to take care of my kiddos. One day is okay, but the VERY NEXT day was a struggle (preschool to/from, Landon, timing, how long). Thankfully, some very helpful preschool moms helped me out with less 24 hours notice, because I had less than 24 hours notice.. Blah. But, it's good. Kiddos were taken care of, and civic duty was complete.

I urge you --- when that jury summons is placed in you mailbox, fill it out and GO. It's worth it. Being on the jury is a responsibility, but it's one to not take lightly. It's interesting to learn the process. I had a crappy attitude about going prior, but I am changing my mind -- Jury selection and jury duty are a civic right and duty, similar to voting. So, DO IT!

29 Skincare

Birchbox.. It's so hard to get an opinion from a one time use product :( I think I liked 29 skin care but how can I be sure after only one use??? I like how it smelled, I felt moisturized, but I would have loved to be able to try it for more than one night.

I still have a nail polish remover pads to try... since my nails look like poo maybe I should do that today....

Oops! Almost forgot...

So, now that it is JANUARY, I thought I'd update on items I used from my DECEMBER Birchbox.

First, I was so excited when I opened my pretty wrapped box, and saw a full size mascara. If there is one thing I have a weakness for, it's mascara. To plump up my lashes, make them long, luscious, and fake me looking awake! But, seriously, if my lashes where like my son's, I'd probably nev... no, I would totally wear mascara :)

So, the mascara ... first, it has a mirror on the body of the tube. Genius! I love the brush too.. I haven't had clumping.. It just seems to really coat my lashes without making them like spider legs. Did I mention it was a full size mascara? LOVE! <3 (ModelCo Fibre LashXtend. Get it!)

Next item --- perfume. It's Nicole by Nicole Richie.. Eh, it's okay. Perfume is a tough one to really sell to me. I prefer something light, sweet, more fruity than floral. Somehow I have managed to collect a drawer full of perfume .... some of those really should go to file 13..

Last -- a shampoo. First, I have a serious case of OCD when it comes to my shampoo/conditioner. I can't do one without the other. So, now my conditioner is a little less. Blah. It's a low sud shampoo, and if I'm going to use a low suds shampoo, it better do something for the curls/waves. This one didn't. I like the low suds Redken shampoo that I blogged about in the past.

I still have nail polish remover pads to try out and some skin care. More to come!

November Birchbox Part 2

I realized in the busyness of my normal daily activities that I forgot to post about the rest of my box... As I stated previously, I really wasn't impressed with this box :( So, here goes my opinion of the rest of the contents ---- 

Skin Transformer sounds like it should be on some type of movie my husband would watch.. With an item like this, I think I would need to use it for an extended period of time and consistently. Most of the time, I have an almost one year old (HOLY COW!!!) climbing up my legs. I'm lucky to get my teeth brushed some mornings. I'll continue to use my sample, but I don't see this item becoming part of my routine :/

Stila shimmer I mixed this with my foundation. I'm sure if I hadn't been lazy and done things in two steps I'd be able to see the product. Regardless, it's something that is nice to add for a date night or a holiday party.

Texture spray -- ok, this I really liked! I used my curling hair products and needed to vamp my hair for a date night. I could feel the texture and the volume in my hair. Really liked this. I also have a dry shampoo from Oscar Blandi and really like that also. Only downfall - a shower WILL be required unless you want a serious sexy, bed-head look for the day :)

Perfume and chocolate covered chips?

It's that time of the month again! :) My Birchbox came this past week! I'll be completely honest --- I'm kind of disappointed with this one and it pains me to say it. I love trying new things, and I should expect to not have everything be catered to me, but this one .... I'm just not thrilled. 

So here is what I tried so far --- 

Perfume vial. First of all, since companies started making their perfumes in a spray trial size I so prefer that! I hate having to be SO careful to open the vial then my fingers smell and taste like the perfume. Gag. Sadly, Atelier Cologne Rose Anonyme kinda did that for me. It was a dab on vial and I really can't stand the smell. I should have known with the word 'rose' in it, it would be extremely flowery. From working in a bank, I have smelled a lot of things. Super sweet little old ladies who OD on flowery perfume is one scent that makes my eyes water and I start to gag. I have a slight opinion about perfume -- can ya tell?! 

Second -- Chocolate covered potato chip - Chuao Chocolatier Assorted ChocoPod. Sounds good, right? Ehh.. If it's a chocolate covered POTATO CHIP -- where was the chip? It was a little crunchy, but I was really hoping for a thick lardy chip covered in chocolate. Not so much. It was like the crumbs at the bottom had been molded into a leaf-like shape and covered in chocolate. But it's only 60 calories.. I wouldn't buy them, but it was nice to try.

I have 3 more items to try, but so far, this box has been a bit of a bust :/

Ugh. The humidity! The curls! The fly aways! What is a girl to do!?

So, my amazing stylist, Katie from Roots Salon (go see her. She's kind of amazing. And I've known her FOREVER) told me about a new line from Redken. Let me first of all tell you a little about my hair.

1. It's wavy, but it's also developed some weird textures/habits since I've had two babies. It's changed after both kiddos were born. Not a fan, but pregnancy does this!

2. Totally color treated. After I became pregnant with Landon I noticed some grays coming. (tears.) Oh well. It happens.

3. I'm lazy and cheap.

That being said --- When I have time, I love my hair flat-ironed, but seriously. I have zilch time unless Landon is asleep. Even then, there is always a chance only half my head would be finished. However, it's so much easier for me to wash, towel dry, slap on some product, and roll. I'll be honest - I'm usually running late. I try, but it's hard some days. Roots Salon had a sample package of Redken Curls. I am so glad I picked this up!! A try me size of shampoo, conditioner, mousse-like product, diffuser, and some instruction. 

-Shampoo is a low sud shampoo, but I like it. It was weird to use because I'm used to some serious lather, but I like the results!

-Conditioner is very similar to what I am used to. Like it.

-Mousse - not like a puffy, touch and it vanishes. Website describes it as a foam wax. Little tacky, but kind of amazing.

My dear, sweet, fellow curly haired ladies - give it a try! I'm really liking the results! Enjoy and embrace the curls!

Serum, body wash, Luna

Cosmetic opinion part 2!

Body Wash - ya know, for me, body wash is body wash. As long as it doesn't break me out, I'm ok. It smells good.. the morning after I still feel moisturized (but I'm also oily).. I think I would rather stick with taking advantage of Bath and Body works mondo sales for my body wash. 

Joanna Vargas Daily Serum - it's very nice, and I think it's something that is good to include in one's routine. However, I am not willing to pay $85 for a tube. I'll find something cheaper. I may do some checking around at Ulta or Sephora for something similar but easier on my checking account.

Luna fiber - we are getting a case of these the next time we go to SAMs club :) I let Shannon take a bite and we both really enjoyed the bar! It's a softer bar, which was a nice change from our normal granola bars. From reading the packaging, lots of good stuff in a bar. It's something great to grab on the go when I'm running late. 

If I had to rank my items from this month here's my list, favorites first:
Luna Bar
Lip Gloss
Serum
Body Wash
Essie nail polish

Until next month! 

Nail polish and lip gloss

I recently started to get a Birchbox. If you have no idea what a Birchbox is, let me tell you - it's an amazing box that comes to your home once a month with 5-6 sample items to try. It's a $10 monthly subscription, but I am loving it! I love trying something new, plus it helps keep my checking account at a higher balance :)

My husband has gently told me my blog tends to be on the darker side.. It happens. I have too many thoughts rolling in my head and those thoughts have to come out. So, in an effort to look at the happier things in life I am going to try to blog about other aspects of my life - cosmetics, knitting, crochet, beading... and who knows what else! 

From my October box, I have only tried 2 of my 5 items - a nail polish from Essie and lip gloss from Naked Princess. The nail polish - ugh. Let me start by saying for over a year I have been using gelish polish and I LOVE it. I can have a nice manicure for at least a week if not longer (depending on the shade). Because of that I have turned into a nail polish snob. I like my polish to last at least a day. The Essie didn't :( I may not have done a decent application but it started to chip later the same day. Boo. It has a nice application, I like the color, but it just didn't last for me. I'm always washing my hands, washing dishes, cleaning up messy faces/hands... 

BUT... the lip gloss... oh man, did I like the lip gloss! Naked Princess Naked Shine Luscious Lip Gloss. O-M-G. It's soft, it's moisturizing, it's NOT sticky.. It's a light color with some plumping (that I really don't need, but whatever) benefits as well. This may be something that goes into my cart! REALLY liked it. 

So, there are 3 items still waiting to be used.. Stay tuned :) (photos to come. I'm too lazy to take the pictures right now and post!)